2026 Photo Contest Voting
Please vote for each of the contest categories. Once a vote is cast you cannot change it.
Best Overall Photo
A memorable bird photo that stands out for creativity, clarity, and overall visual impact.
top calendar photos
Photos selected to be featured in the official Headlands Birding Festival calendar.
best bird in habitat photo
A photo showing a bird in its natural habitat and its surrounding environment.
funniest bird photo
A lighthearted photo capturing a funny, unexpected, or amusing bird moment.
Judging Criteria
All photo entries will be reviewed by a select panel of experienced birders and photographers. Photos will be judged with an emphasis on creativity, observation, and enjoyment of birding — not just technical perfection. Youth and first-time photographers are encouraged to participate.
Bird Identification & Observation
- Does the photo clearly show a wild bird seen during the festival?
- Did the photographer capture an interesting behavior, pose, or moment?
Creativity & Composition
- Is the photo visually engaging or fun to look at?
- Creative framing, perspective, or timing is encouraged — there’s no single “right” way to take a great photo.
Storytelling & Moment
- Does the photo tell a story or capture the excitement of birding at the festival?
- Photos that show curiosity, patience, or a special connection with nature will stand out.
Technical Quality
- Focus, exposure, clarity, and overall image quality
- Does the image allow the bird to be easily seen and appreciated?
Judges will consider both photographic skill and an understanding of birds in their natural environment.
Submission Rules
To ensure a fair and enjoyable contest for all participants, please review the following guidelines:
- Photos must be taken during the Headlands Birding Festival
- Images must feature wild birds observed at the festival
- Each participant may submit one photo per category
- Basic editing is allowed (cropping, exposure, color correction), but composite images or heavy manipulation are not permitted
- Submissions must be the original work of the entrant
- Contest is open to festival attendees only (verified via General Registration ticket)
By submitting a photo, participants confirm they have read and agree to these rules.